Horned Dorset, a conservation breed, has been around for centuries in the south of England. The breed was imported to Oregon in the 1860’s. A second breed was developed without horns, the Polled Dorset. The fleece of the two breeds is very similar. The wool is white, the crimp pattern is fine and locks can be in the 3 - 5 inch range. Fleeces are in medium range but can be coarse, more suited to outerwear. While not a Down breed, the Horned Dorset fleece is difficult to felt, a natural choice for socks.